Voices of the Civil War

On Saturday, February 8, from 10 am until 5 pm, celebrate Frederick Douglass’s 196th birthday in a celebration of the life of this great orator, abolitionist, and statesman. Hear music from the Civil War era from the Washington Revels Jubilee Voices, see demonstrations of a Civil War soldier’s life and weaponry, enjoy fun activities for kids, and learn more about the role of African American soldiers in the Civil War. Jubilee Voices performs at 10 am during the Opening Ceremonies at the Anacostia Playhouse. Learn More »

Washington Revels thanks Rupert Chappelle for this video of our second concert (about half of the full program) at Christ Episcopal Church during “The Civil War Comes to Rockville” on June 29, 2013. If you don’t want to watch it in 3D, you can click on “3D” on the black bar below the video and choose “turn off 3D.” Enjoy! Learn More »

On June 29, 10:00am-8:30pm, enjoy the sights, sounds and music of the 19th Century—including concerts and family activities by Washington Revels vocal ensembles, musicians and actors. This free event (the centerpiece of Heritage Montgomery’s 16th annual Heritage Days Weekend) includes concerts, crafts and demonstrations, and appearances by historical figures (including President Abraham Lincoln!). Have fun learning about life in Rockville during the war; take an Underground Railroad walking tour; delight in children’s activities and a family sing; and kick up your heels at a community country dance featuring the Roustabout String Band at evening’s end! Learn More »

On June 8 at 2:00pm, Washington Revels Jubilee Voices rang the rafters and cheered the members and guests of Mount Bethel Baptist Church in located in historic Bloomingdale, a neighborhood in Washington, DC. The group performed a lively set filled with spirituals and stirring words from historical figures such as Frederick Douglass and John Brown, while telling the story of how African Americans moved from slavery to freedom in the United States.

On April 25 at 7:30 pm, Washington Revels officially released the five CDs that we have produced over the years! The Celebration Concert featured the Wammie-award-winning Washington Revels choruses, Washington Revels Brass, and guest artists from our CDs — Shannon Finney, Jacqueline Schwab, Bruce Molsky, Riki Schneyer, and Stephen Winick. Learn more »

Celebrating History & Culture

Washington Revels celebrates the history and culture of the Washington area and beyond through its performing ensembles. These groups revive and present traditional material, performing on stages, at historic sites, in museum galleries, during community festivals, and at many other venues. Featuring the talents of local performers, Voices of the Civil War performances feature music of the era, historical portrayals, speeches, letters and stories drawn from primary source material.Learn More »

What People are Saying…

Everyone really enjoyed the performances. The singers sounded fantastic! We’re looking forward to working with you more in the future. – Sahand Miraminy, Events and Programs Coordinator President Lincoln’s Cottage

On behalf of the entire Temple Shalom family, I would like to thank you for your participation in our MLK Service last Friday. Your program was wonderfully received and I appreciate your spirits and voices so very much. Please consider this a standing invitation. – Cantor Lisa Levine, Temple Shalom